Kinesthetic Learning

Learning styles cover a wide variety of preferences with a core concept that individuals learn differently. The Vark Model discusses four learning styles, visual, aural (auditory), read-writing, and kinesthetic learning. I will discuss my learning preference, how it relates to two different learning theories, and how as an adult learner my learning style affects my educational pursuits. After a few short questions using the Vark instrument it was identified that I have a strong kinesthetic learning preference.

Kinesthetic learning is a style in which learning takes place by “doing” (Fleming, 2014). As a kinesthetic learner, I get more fulfillment out of being physically engaged in “doing” the task rather than watching a demonstration or listening to a briefing. Movement and active participation helps to increase my understanding. While I am engaging in the task, I can better think about what I am doing, while I am doing it. Active learning is the key to kinesthetic learning. There are individual differences within each learner, understanding the method in which we learn best is a role in the learning process. Attempts to understand those differences have developed into an abundance of theories, created to provide an explanation of how those differences relate to learning. Four general learning perspectives are Behaviorist, Cognitive, Humanistic and Social Learning. I will discuss the two perspectives of behaviorist and social learning and underlying theories as they relate to my style of learning.

Andragogy requires that adult learners be involved in the identification of their learning and the needs and the planning of how those needs are satisfied (The Clinical Educator's Resource Kit). Behaviorism deals with action and consequence (Behaviorism Theory Overview). An action that produces a positive result is likely to be repeated and one that yields a negative outcome is less likely to be repeated. Related to the learning style of kinesthetic, if I am...